Hair Art Design Diploma Program

In 2004, JCI and AXIS Training Systems teamed up because there wasn’t a curriculum out there that addressed the changing needs of hairdressers and their clients. By replacing outdated methods with an innovative, fresh approach, JCI and AXIS Training Systems were the first to launch a program that considered the future of hair: the Hair Art Design Program.

Our 6-month, hands-on program is broken down into 20 hours per week, with the option of morning, afternoon, evening or weekend classes. If you’re currently working, our flexible class times make retraining for a new career more doable than ever. Student loans are also available for those who qualify.

Your workspace should inspire you— our teaching salon is no exception. Located in Gastown, the salon occupies a 1,200 square foot loft-style space, putting you at the centre of Vancouver’s creative and cultural hub. The school is run exactly like the AXIS Salon, so you’ll learn how to provide clients with a professional salon experience.

As for your teachers, they are top-working professionals and guest instructors who are dialled into industry trends. They’ll help you build strong foundations in cutting, colouring and styling so that upon graduation, you’ll have the skills and confidence to start working immediately.

“The hair art design course has offered me an amazing learning experience. As a result, I feel confident and excited to practice my skills in the industry. I believe that I’ve gained much more than I was expecting to do with the instructors who are creative and inspirational!” — Kelli Chan

Pick A Career That Suits Your Style

Hair Stylist In A Salon Or Spa
As a hair stylist, you’re responsible for bringing your client’s vision to life. Whether it’s a simple trim or a full-blown colour transformation, you’ll use your creativity and skill to help them achieve the look they want. You’ll be expected to offer a range of services, including shampooing, cutting, colouring, styling and a client favourite: the scalp massage.

Platform Stylist
If you love the thought of being on the road and meeting new people, a platform stylist could be the perfect fit. As a representative for product companies, you’ll do creative platform work for tradeshows, salon education, and trend development.

Sales Rep
Are you a people person? If you thrive in social situations and know how to lead a conversation, you could work as a sales representative. As a sales representative, you’ll represent one or more product lines and are responsible for building relationships with salons, spas, and schools, so that they can distribute and sell your products.

Film & TV Hair Stylist (Union Or Non-Union)
If working on set is totally up your alley, you could become a hairstylist for film and TV. That means you’re responsible for providing styling services for any and all cast members of a film, TV series or commercial. The needs of the cast may vary— so be prepared to offer everything from simple grooming to edgy cuts and styling.

Freelance Stylist
Want to work on your own terms? As a freelance hair stylist, you’re in charge of drumming up your own business and clients. You can pick and choose what work you accept, but most freelance projects include fashion shows, weddings, commercial photo shoots and more.

Salon Manager
Maybe you like the thought of running the show. As a salon manager or owner, you’re responsible for managing a team of stylists and are in charge of hiring, scheduling, and reviewing your employees. You’ll also tend to duties like reception, inventory control, restocking, and tracking success.

Hair Instructor
If you love what you do and want to share that passion with others, becoming a hair instructor is a no-brainer. As an instructor, you’ll draw from your experiences to help upcoming stylists develop their skills and build confidence. You’ll also be in charge of demonstrating hairdressing techniques and giving students the insider perspective on the industry.

Hair Styling School

TESTIMONIALS

INDUSTRY TALK:

“Throughout my 30 years in the hair industry, I have worked with students from many academies across North America. I personally feel that the Hair Art Design Program at JCI produces the most industry-ready young talent out there. Their students have confidence, skill and a great foundation for success.”

“As a salon that strives to be cutting edge and dynamic, our relationship with JCI continues to be a positive venture. We have the privilege of welcoming students into our environment during their work experience practicum. The students at JCI are always eager to jump in and motivated to learn about the industry. It is already apparent that their first few months of schooling have prepared them for what the world of hair has in store. JCI students are privileged to have instructors who the industry holds in high regard. We are fortunate to have a handful of JCI grads on our team. These team members are dynamic, constantly growing both personally and professionally. JCI has been a stepping stone for some very successful stylists. Notably, Andree Rodriguez, a JCI grad currently in our apprenticeship, is a finalist for the 2014 Contessa’s. We can always count on JCI to provide a strong foundation for up-and-coming stylists.”

Bruce PetersZazou Salon and Spa

“Everything was great and I’m so glad I chose JCI. My instructors were wonderful. I’m ready to take on the “real world” and use my skills gained at JCI!” — Meagan Wilson

“I have had many young graduates from John Casablancas training academy in my salon years. The students have great salon working knowledge right from the get-go; mainly because all of the teachers at the school are top stylists that also work some days every week at Axis, one of the top Vancouver salons. I think this working relationship is a huge benefit to the students as they are given an understanding of the reality of working in a real salon way before they come to have a work experience in other salons. My current right-hand stylist assistant, Bailey, is actually a very recent graduate of the school. She graduated only six months ago and yet is going to be working alongside me on stage in my upcoming show presentation as a stylist in her own right. She will be showing and talking about things she has learned and experienced. She is starting to live and experience the dreams and goals that all young stylist graduates should have. So much of this confidence is because of the early training she received at the JCI academy.”

Jon Paul HoltAvantgarde Hair Vancouver

“My name is Anthony Crosfield and I own Union Salon in Vancouver B.C. I hold positions on the Design Team with NIOXIN, and I am an Educator and Platform Artist with Wella Professionals. As an employer and active hairdresser in this industry for over 30 years, I firmly believe in the mentor/mentee relationship. The JCI Institute produces students willing to participate in this environment. Presently, at Union Salon, we have many past graduates employed, several at the senior stylist level. All have proven themselves as exemplary employees, willing to reach and surpass all goals and challenges set before them. Time and time again, I am witness to the successful graduates of the JCI Institute consistently produce. Without hesitation, Union salon would hire any graduate of this hairdressing program, as they are set for success in this industry.”

OUR STUDENTS SAY IT BEST:

“Prior to beginning the HAD program, I had no idea what to expect. Moving to a new city and beginning a completely new industry was both exciting and nerve-wracking. The administration answered all of my program and living arrangement inquiries. My fellow students soon became close friends. Gastown is always an exciting place to commute to every day and the instructors were both immensely inspiring and knowledgeable. I am so proud of all I have learned, all of the work I have completed, and for my future as a stylist.

Daneka Mcketridge

“I had an overall amazing experience at JCI. The Hair program was exactly what I thought it would be and I learned so much. All the testimonials I read matched up to the program and institute.”

Sebastian Arias Douartt

“I am glad that I chose to come back to JCI. It was great the first time I came, and great the second time. I feel like I have gained so much knowledge over the last six months, and I am excited to learn more. I appreciate that we got to meet so many guest speakers; it encourages me to get to know more people in the industry. The instructors were amazing. They made it possible for me to succeed.”

Andrea Alleyne

“JCI was a blast! Super hands-on learning from day one. The instructors have been in the industry for years and from all different specialty backgrounds. What an honour to learn from all of them! We have all felt encouraged from the first day and that will be carried over into the real world.” — Kathryn Spearman

“My overall experience at JCI was amazing-so much so, that I wish I didn’t have to leave. Staff and instructors were all fabulous, and it has been a pleasure getting to know and learn from every one of them. Leaving the program, I felt confident, excited, and inspired. I feel like I have a great support team behind me if I ever need anything. Thank you to all at JCI!”

Christina Toneff

“JCI’S Hair Art Design program was a great selection for education in Hairdressing and Salon atmosphere. I have a firm groundwork and feel confident entering my salon as an apprentice.”

Alisha Knowsley

“My overall experience was amazing and worth the investment. I was doubtful about taking the course, but the instructors and friends made it seem easy. I enjoyed learning and coming to school every day and never felt frustrated. The teachers were super helpful and knowledgeable about their passion and inspired me more throughout the months. I couldn’t be happier where I am today and the amount of knowledge I learnt in 6 months. I feel super confident and ready for the real world.”

Priva Prandivan

GRADUATE SPOTLIGHTS

JCI hair grads are working throughout the province and across the country in every big name salon out there.

Christina graduated at the top of her class from JCI’s Hair Art Design program in 2006. Since then, she’s made a name for herself as both a stylist and entrepreneur. After spending 3 years working at AXIS, Christina co-opened The Dye Lot— a wildly successful salon in North Vancouver. The Dye Lot has been voted among the top salons in both The Georgia Straight and North Shore News. Christina’s other business ventures include The Wig Room, which offers custom cut/coloured hair pieces for clients, and Hair 101: an in-person tutorial service that will help you crush your hair goals.

Elissa took home the Top Student Award in her graduating class at JCI. On top of her training at JCI, she’s also studied creative cutting at Vidal Sassoon in Los Angeles. Now, Elissa works as a Master Stylist at AXIS. A self-proclaimed hair nerd, Elissa truly believes there are no days off when you love what you do, which is why she continues to push herself and take on new creative opportunities. She’s made Vancouver’s Top 20 Best Hair Stylists List and was also a semi-finalist for Wella Trend Vision. Elissa’s extensive experience and natural ability to teach lead her back to JCI, where continues to bring out the best in her students as a Senior Instructor.

Brittany graduated from JCI’s Hair Art Design program and has proved to be a rising star in the industry. Not only is she an in-demand stylist at AXIS, but she’s also gaining momentum on the national stage. Brittany was voted one of the top 5 finalists at the Contessa Awards, securing her title as one of Canada’s best new hair stylists. She’s also had her work published in Salon magazine— one of the most influential magazines in the industry. With a whole world of potential in front of her, we can’t wait to see what Brittany accomplishes next.

Karl is truly a master of his craft. Upon graduating, he went on to hone his teaching skills as an instructor at JCI. Opportunity then knocked in New York, where Karl trained under Nick Arrojo. Continuing his work abroad, Karl spent 2 years in the U.K. at London’s Pimp & Pinups. Now you’ll find Karl back in Vancouver, where he has a renowned reputation as a blonde and colour-correction specialist at AXIS. No stranger to accolades, Karl has earned himself a spot on Vancouver’s Top 20 Best Hair Stylists List, and he was also ranked 2nd Top Hair Stylist in the Westender. Karl is also the secret behind Instagram influencer Samantha Ravndahl’s famous locks.

Shawn’s career started in the most unconventional way: he opened a salon first, then decided to study hair. Initially, Shawn had intended to take care of the photography side of his salon, Hair Soda, but after seeing the impact that could be made through hair, Shawn decided to enrol at JCI to see where it could take him. He graduated in the top of his class and is now not just an owner of Hair Soda, but a stylist as well. Shawn’s speciality? He’s an expert in men’s barbering— consider him your go-to guy for classic cuts, skin fades, beard and hair designs, and edgy styles.

Lisa attended JCI’s Hair Art Design program on a well-deserved scholarship. After graduating, she went on to pursue a career at the Chop Shop on Granville Street. There, she learnt from some of the top talents in the industry, and after honing her craft decided to forge her own path. Just eight months out of school, Lisa established her own Chop Shop as a sole ownership franchise. Now, she specializes in edgy styles, while simultaneously running a successful salon. Lisa’s drive, passion, and creativity make her one to watch in the industry.

PORTFOLIO

HAIR SCHOOL INSTRUCTORS

Foster Eastman

Founder and Owner AXIS Salons and Training Systems

Throughout his career, Foster has consistently cut through the noise, establishing himself as a pioneer in the industry. He’s won numerous awards, including B.C. Hairdresser of the Year, Canadian Hairdresser of the Year, as well as 5 nominations for North American Hairdresser of the Year. He’s represented manufacturers and distributors as a platform artist all across North America, performing for groups as large as 4,000. Throughout his wildly successful salons and loads of experience, Foster created AXIS Training Systems and has nurtured the training of hundreds of apprentices embarking on their hairdressing careers. Alumni from AXIS Training Systems has gone on to work in the world’s most creative cities, like London, Paris and New York— doing hair for actors, models and TV shows. Some iconic clients include Jennifer Aniston, supermodel Gisele Bundchen and the Oprah Winfrey Show. Thanks to the deregulation of the B.C. Licensing Program in 2004, Foster partnered with JCI to launch the Hair Art Design Program, which revolutionized outdated teaching methods by offering a curriculum better suited to current trends and the needs of today’s hairdressing clientele. As a graduate of the Hair Art Design Program, you’ll receive a diploma and acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to enter the hair industry and make your mark. On top of it all, you’ll also benefit from the prestige of training with JCI and AXIS Training Systems. *Foster is the Creator and Director of the program but is not an instructor.

Jenny Guzzo

Instructor Hair Art Design

Instructor Jenny has worked in the hair industry for more than 10 years. She first entered the industry as a top grossing sales rep for one of the largest hair product suppliers in the country. Her position as a rep fueled her passion for the creative aspect of the business leading her to the AXIS Training Systems at JCI. After graduating at the top of her class, Jenny joined the team at AXIS Hair Salons. Working as a successful stylist, combined with her hairstyling and color expertise, makes her a truly well-rounded professional and teacher.

Elissa Wolfe

Instructor Hair Art Design

JCI AXIS and Vidal Sassoon trained Elissa is John Casablancas Institutes’ resident short cut specialist. Focusing her career in precision cutting, this expert stylist has an ‘Avante Garde’ approach to updos, and she possesses the creativity and artistic ability to think outside the box. Elissa is committed to helping students develop their skills and creativity while in the training program. Her body of work includes many of Vancouver’s fashion shows including the Oakridge Fall Show, Hugo Boss at Brian Jessel, and the Vanity for Charity event. She was also a key hair stylist for the theatre production of The Rocky Horror Picture show and was a semi-finalist Wella Trend Vision Competition.

This hairstyling wonder began cutting at the age of 17 and hasn’t stopped. Nicole is a fully booked stylist at AXIS salons with more than 500 clients on her roster. “The best part of my job is the fact that it doesn’t feel like work, it feels like a second home”. Nicole has been lucky enough to attend many of the Wella International Trend Vision Galas including Germany, Portugal, and most recently Paris. In 2011 she received a Semi-Finalist award for Wella’s Top Young Talent. Nicole also participates in AXIS salons “Lingerie Cut-A-Thon” event raising money for Children with Brain Cancer. Nicole’s remarkable experience coupled with her friendly character makes her a great fit for the hair instructor team at JCI.

Amanda Viera

Instructor Hair Art Design

Amanda is JCI Alumni and won Top Student for her class. Amanda was hired at graduation by AXIS Salons where she remains a senior stylist today. Amanda keeps herself up to date with advanced classes such as Wella’s top stylist Paul Nasrallah and Trend Vision Gold Winner Philip Ferreira and further explores her creativity and passion as she does hair and makeup for a local photography business. Amanda brings a current and creative approach to her teaching at JCI.

Tara Sebela

Instructor Hair Art Design

Tara graduated the program at John Casablancas Institute in 2012 and worked as an apprentice under award-winning colourist Michelle Pargee. She began hairdressing at AXIS in 2014 and has since honed her abilities as an advanced colourist with mentorship from Master colourist and educator Karl Brown, and internationally recognized Wella colourist, Philip Ferriera. She has defined a unique sense of colouring and contemporary styling for herself at AXIS Hair Salons and was thrilled to join the team at John Casablancas Institute in 2017 as an educator.

A John Casablancas graduate himself, Steven landed a job at AXIS immediately after school, where he still currently works. Having taken advanced creative classes with award-winning stylists Phillip Ferreira and Paul Nasrallah, Steven enjoys the creative and artistic aspect of both cutting and colouring which he applies to his teaching as well.

Josh has more than 8 years experience in the industry after finishing with top marks in his class. He trained at Aveda in their advanced dual specialist program and apprenticed under Sheena Rains. Josh started his career in a boutique salon in Leduc, Alberta but moved to Vancouver shortly after becoming a licensed Red Seal Hairdresser. He started styling at AXIS Salon and quickly built a strong and loyal clientele. During his career, Josh assisted top stylists in multiple Wella shows including Trendvision. He has taken advanced colour training with Ana Karzis, creative cutting classes with Paul Nasrallah, creative cut and colour with Antonio Quintieri, and has been mentored by award-winning stylist, Philip Ferreira. Josh has also participated in styling runway models for Vancouver Fashion Week and Edmonton Fashion Week. He loves long hair and colour corrections.

Katie Johnston

Instructor Hair Art Design

Originally from Kelowna, Katie moved to Vancouver at a young age to follow her dream to become a hairdresser. Katie is a graduate of the Hair Art Design Program at JCI Institute and began working at AXIS before she even graduated. In 2007, JCI was thrilled to add Katie to our team of amazing instructors. In 2008, Katie took a sabbatical moving to London, England for two years teaching and advancing her education working with award-winning HOB Salons. During her stay in London, she attended many artistic and competitive hair shows such as Wella’s Trend Vision and the prestigious British Hairdressing awards. Katie continues to compete on both a national and international level.

2. For students applying without an approved English language proficiency examination score, their English proficiency will be assessed through the internal JCI English Comprehension Test.

A score of 65% is required for admission to BOD, FAB, HAD, and MUA

A score of 75% is required for admission to the FAD

Admission Procedure:

The College requests an interview with each applicant. Applicants who cannot attend a personal interview must set up a phone or Skype interview and also submit a reference letter from a teacher, employer or other professional

All applicants, whose first language is not English, must present proof of English comprehension by meeting IELTS, TOEFL or TOEIC scores. Applicants without these scores must pass the JCI English comprehension test

Tuition: $9,500 / Kit & Textbook Fee: $1,826.95

Financial aid is available for domestic students.

For international student tuition fees, please visit the International page.

Learn more about available programs at John Casablancas Institute

FAQ’S

Q: Why isn’t this program 1500 hours?A: The BC Government, in response to lobbying from the hair industry, removed the requirement for 1500 hours of schooling and licensing of hairdressers effective January 2004. This change paved the way for a new type of program, one that combines the value of school-based training with an apprenticeship, hands-on program. With this innovative approach, JCI has been leading the way for innovated and current hair design training for over 10 years.

Q: Will I have to apprentice in BC?A: While some salons may want you to apprentice for a short time to learn the style of the salon, there is absolutely no requirement or need to apprentice once you have completed the program.

Q: What am I missing if I don’t take the 1500 program?A: In terms of hair design training, you’re not missing a thing. You will receive complete training in all areas of hairdressing, including key business skills which aren’t covered in many hair programs. The reason we can teach you so much in a shorter period of time is because of the format of the training. This is a complete ‘learn-by-doing’ program where you will begin cutting on your mannequin on the second day of class and you will be working on clients by the sixth week. Additionally, the young and funky clientele that frequent the academy salon guarantees that you will be learning modern cuts and styles, making you salon-ready and avoiding the monotony of working on out-dated styles such as perm-wraps and roller sets. At JC Institute, we focus on the quality of the training… not the quantity.